tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-85180068794228150002024-02-18T20:41:48.572-05:00FUMC Pastor's WeblogBill Clarkhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18275984543911330042noreply@blogger.comBlogger189125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-84529298640969200742013-07-11T11:43:00.002-04:002013-07-11T11:43:29.646-04:00God Moments: Just for Humans?This summer I have been leading a five week Adult Study on Creation. We've talked about the different aspects of creation, why God created, and what our role is in the creation. One of the interesting topics that keeps coming up is whether animals experience the presence of God. Some come down against this idea, while others think animals do have an awareness of God. We challenge each other and respectfully hold different opinions, which is one of the joys of Adult Studies.<br />
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Personally, I think animals have some awareness of God's presence. One of the ways I experience God is through my relationships with animals. I believe God created us with the capacity to feel love for each other as well as all aspects of creation. If that is the case, why would God not create animals with the capacity to feel that love as well? Perhaps animals even experience God Moments! <br />
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I recently read a story about a farmer who struggled with drought. She prayed for her fields and lamented the high cost of hay. At the same time she prayed for the deer who were also struggling in the drought. She wrote, "God answered my prayer in an unexpected and unwelcome way. The deer began to eat our very expensive hay...Earlier I had prayed for God to give them something to eat; now I was asking God to do so in a way that would be of no cost or consequence for me." The farmer used this experience to learn about giving to help the needs of others ~ even animals. I wonder if the deer experienced finding the hay as a God Moment!<br />
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There is no way to know for sure if animals have an awareness of God. They can't answer our questions or attend our Adult Studies. Yet, the prophet Isaiah speaks the Word of God saying:<br />
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<span class="st">"The wild animals honor me,<br /> the jackals and the owls,<br />because I provide water in the wilderness<br /> and streams in the wasteland,<br />to give drink to my people, my chosen</span><br />
<span class="st"> the people I formed for myself<br /> that they may proclaim my praise."</span><br />
<span class="st">~ Isaiah 43:20-21 </span><br />
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<span class="st">What do you think? Do animals experience God moments? </span><br />
<br />Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-81232782886515237942013-05-09T11:36:00.003-04:002013-05-09T11:36:36.751-04:00God Moments in North Carolina<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Recently six of us arrived home after a week-long Mission Trip to North Carolina! Not surprisingly, there were many God Moments during the week. Our days of work began with devotions and ended with a time to share where we had seen God that day. We saw God in each other, in the clients we worked with, and in ourselves as we learned new skills and did things we never imagined we would be able to do! <br />
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During our trip we met a homeowner named Hazel. Hazel had been flooded out of her home 18 months ago. When we met her the repairs on her home were almost complete. Joe did some electrical work for her and our church was able to purchase a her a sump-pump, which Joe installed. (Hazel referred to Joe as 'her electrician!') When we presented the sump-pump to her she spoke of the frustration she experienced while waiting so long to return to her home. Yet she celebrated God's timing, because the wait ultimately brought us together ~ a church group from Vermont and a homeowner in North Caolina. What an amazing faith witness! Meeting Hazel was a God Moment for me and I will never forget her! Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-15831374551404160072013-02-14T11:07:00.001-05:002013-02-14T11:07:14.407-05:00God Moments: Ash Wednesday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ash Wednesday is the beginning of Lent. Services for Ash Wednesday tend to be small, intimate gatherings in the United Methodist tradition. Many of us didn't grow up with the tradition of receiving ashes on Ash Wednesday. Yet, there is power in reclaiming this spiritual practice. <br />
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The ashes imposed on our foreheads (or the back of our hands) remind us of our frailty and dependence on God. They remind us that we are mortal, that we are not God. All of us will die. All of us will return to the dust. <br />
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While this is a rather stark reality, it is the truth. But it is not the whole truth. Our physical bodies will decay, but our spiritual selves will live on through God's forgiveness and grace. God loves us, dust and all. Because of this, the ashes represent the end of our physical lives and the continuation of our eternal lives. <br />
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As pastor, I get to 'impose' the ashes on the foreheads of the people who come to the altar rail on Ash Wednesday. Looking into their eyes and saying "Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return" is a powerful experience. In the past I have had the experience of putting ashes on the forehead of a baby and on the forehead of an elderly friend whose funeral I officiated just weeks later. These are moments that stick with me. Yet the God Moment for me in Ash Wednesday is knowing that while our physical bodies may limit us and separate us, we will not be separated for long. God's grace is more powerful than death. Thanks be to God.<br />
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<br />Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-8406351883293300582013-01-31T09:31:00.001-05:002013-01-31T09:31:10.123-05:00God Moments: Legislative ForumOn Monday I attended the Legislative Forum for the Chittenden County Domestic and Sexual Violence Task Force and KidSafe Collaborative. This was an opportunity for our local legislators to hear concerns about issues of child, individual, and family safety. Last year I spoke as a survivor from my experience of assault and sexual violence. This year I attended as a supporter and helped with the set-up and clean-up duties for the event. I wore my 'clergy collar' as a witness to the faith community's interest in these issues.<br />
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I must admit that this year I found the event much more relaxing than last year. Last year I was pleased to share my story, but very nervous. It was the first time I shared my story with a room full of strangers. It ended up being a healing experience, but one filled with trepidation.<br />
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This year I was able to sit back and take it all in with a feeling of gratitude. While sitting in the audience, I prayed for those presenting. I felt blessed to be in a room filled with people who care about issues of violence in our community. In the wake of tragedies such as Sandy Hook, it is easy to get discouraged and think that violence will have the last word. On Monday morning I was reminded that hope abounds, that light always overcomes darkness. This was a God Moment for me!<br />
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<br />Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-395289868294776452013-01-24T11:22:00.000-05:002013-01-24T11:22:35.972-05:00God Moments: Out of the ColdBrrr.... This is the coldest week in my recent memory! The temperature on our three-season porch was -11 this morning. Wow! This week my thoughts have turned to those who don't have adequate heat or shelter and those living on the streets. I thank God that our community has resources in place to bring people in off of the streets during these cold winter nights. Cold days like these bring the issues of homelessness and housing security to the forefront of our minds. <br />
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It seems to me that God Moments can come from anywhere and be inspired by anything. This morning our local ABC 22 news interviewed a homeless man in Burlington. He lives in a tent in the woods and prefers to be homeless. He said he likes the flexibility. While I don't understand his preference, I can accept his feelings. <br />
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Homeless living can be dangerous when extreme weather hits. When asked if he had lost any friends to the cold he nodded and shared a couple of names. This week, though, outreach workers found him a place to stay in a local hotel. He is safe, at least for this cold stretch. Even though I am a stranger to him, I can thank God for that. <br />
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Seeing this on the news was a God Moment for me because it inspired me to want to learn more about the homelessness issues in our community. The Burlington Area Ministers Association has been in communication with the community about expanding the shelter programs. Seeing this interview put a face on the issue for me. <br />
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What God Moments have you experienced this week? How have God Moments inspired you to learn more or get involved in issues or concerns? Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-9756974957546815702013-01-17T11:19:00.001-05:002013-01-17T11:19:20.679-05:00God Moments: Everywhere! Our Natural Church Development Team has been encouraging us to notice the God Moments in our lives. A God Moment can happen anywhere, anytime. It is simply an experience of feeling close, connected or thankful to God. This week God Moments have been springing up everywhere!<br />
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1. Sunday in Worship I experienced a God Moment as we blessed Tricia for her trip to Nashville for the 2013 Quadrennial Training. In that moment I knew in my heart that God had chosen Tricia for this ministry and we, as a congregation, are blessed through her. Amen!<br />
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2. Later on Sunday our Confirmation Class gathered for the first time. I admit that I was nervous! I was worried about connecting with the youth, but it was the youth who set me at ease. They shared themselves, their God Moments and their humor in our hour and a half together. God was definitely with us!<br />
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3. On Monday I had lunch with several clergy women in Montpelier. We came with our struggles, our joys, our griefs, our celebrations, and our challenges. We also came with brown-bag lunches and lots of laughter. I believe we lived out St. Francis' prayer, "Where there is hatred, let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon. Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope. Where there is darkness, light. And where there is sadness, joy." <br />
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There have been several other God Moments in my life this week. Some I am not at liberty to share. Others are of the mundane stuff of life ~ shared meals, good sleep. For all of these God Moments I give thanks. What God Moments have you experienced this week? When have you felt close, connected and thankful to God? Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-67650982921809972802013-01-03T11:14:00.001-05:002013-01-03T11:14:31.754-05:00God Moments: Time Set Apart<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy New Year! Gary and I enjoyed some wonderful days of vacation between Christmas and New Year's Day. We traveled to Maine where we visited with family and just relaxed with nothing on our to-do lists.<br />
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The day after we arrived the snow began to fall. It fell all day long accumulating to about a foot before the next morning. Since we didn't have anywhere to go the snow felt like a wonderful blessing. It reminded me of the diversity of God's creation ~ white snow covering brown grass ~ and how God calls us to moments of stillness and rest. I slept 12 full hours that night! <br />
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During our vacation days I experienced many God moments. The change of pace reminded me that God doesn't value me for how much I get done or what I accomplish. God values all of us because God created us. God created us for love and joy and worship. It was great to have a week when those three things were my top-priorities! Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-58230642670901958112012-12-20T11:50:00.001-05:002012-12-20T11:50:10.196-05:00God Moments: Love in the Midst of TragedyLast Friday I was puttering around the house, doing my usual day-off chores, when a news broadcast caught my eye. I stood in shock as I learned of a mass shooting at an elementary school in Connecticut. The location wasn't announced immediately, so my mind went right to my friends in Manchester, Connecticut and the children who were in the Sunday School of the congregation I served. I later learned the that tragedy took place on the opposite side of the state, in Newtown. And I learned that it was even more horrific than I could have possibly imagined. Twenty sweet, beautiful children were dead along with six teachers and school administrators who tried to protect them. <i>Unimaginable. </i><br />
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So where is the God Moment in this? Perhaps it is too soon to tell. In the midst of my pain ~ and the pain of everyone I've talked to ~ I appreciate this article from United Methodist Pastor Adam Hamilton. He speaks to the senseless nature of this tragedy and God's place in it all. <br />
<a href="http://www.adamhamilton.org/blog/view/82/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+adamhamilton%2FAdamHamiltonBlog+%28Adam+Hamilton%29#.UNM-0rar8y7"><br />
</a> <a href="http://www.adamhamilton.org/blog/view/82/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+adamhamilton%2FAdamHamiltonBlog+%28Adam+Hamilton%29#.UNM-0rar8y7">No, Everything Doesn't Happen For A Reason</a><br />
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Over the past few days I have seen God in the responses to this tragedy. Lutherans from Illinois brought nine comfort dogs to Newtwon to console grieving children and families with pats and snuggles. Across the country toys have been collected for the children of Newtown and shared beyond with other children in need. Through this tragedy we have recognized the humanity in each other and responded. <br />
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It is too early to understand what happened. In fact, I don't think we will ever understand. Still, we can share God's love with each other and witness to the child whose birth we will celebrate in just a few short days. No matter how deep the darkness, the light will always overcome it. This is the message of Christmas. This is our ever-present God moment. Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-3458824089573901882012-12-13T11:21:00.001-05:002012-12-13T11:21:50.501-05:00God Moments: Charge Conference<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last night we held our 2012 Charge Conference with our District Superintendent, Rev. Brigid Farrell. Brigid brought greetings from our new Bishop in the form of a video. After watching the video we worshiped together and discussed Jesus words from John 15:1-8, "I am the vine, you are the branches."<br />
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Following this spirit-filled opening, we embarked on the business that needed to be done. We voted on the pastor's salary, affirmed our ministry team leaders, approved the acceptance of a bequest, prayerfully removed several people from our membership roles and celebrated the ministry of our Lay Speakers. We concluded with a time of reflection on our ministry, the Natural Church Development process, and the God Moments we experience every day. <br />
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In my early years of ministry, Charge Conference was something I dreaded. I remember my first Charge Conference in my first church was over three hours long. Other Charge Conferences I experienced were contentious and full of angst. When I received the Charge Conference date in the fall it would loom large on my calendar filled with anxiety. <br />
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My God Moment today is that is no longer the case! I celebrate that our Conference has moved away from an instructional and blaming model of Charge Conference to a celebratory and inspirational model. I also celebrate that our District Superintendent does this well. Brigid helps us do the work we need to do while trusting us to carry out the ministry God has placed on our hearts. <br />
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And, finally, I celebrate that our community is a community of trust, love and hope. While we don't always agree, we do listen, support and give each other the benefit of the doubt. I believe this is evidence of the spirit working through us and this, in my opinion, is a wonderful God Moment! Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-14672312490691970442012-12-06T11:16:00.001-05:002012-12-06T11:18:47.263-05:00Advent and New Beginnings!I can't believe I have not blogged since September 17th! I am embarrassed and can't imagine where the time has gone. Is it at all ironic that I lost my discipline for blogging while I was writing a blog series on self-discipline?<br />
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Yet here we are at the beginning of Advent, which is the beginning of the new Christian year. I will put my faults and failings behind me and start a new! <br />
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Lately we have been discussing God moments in light of our focus on Passionate Spirituality, which comes out of our Natural Church Development process. The stories of Advent are filled with God moments. There are visits from angels, heavenly dreams, and a beautiful star pointing the way. Our lives are filled with God moments, too. We just might not always notice them! <br />
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At this beginning of Advent, and in this new Christian year, I am going to start a new blog series on God moments. I will share some of my own God moments and stories of other's God moments. If you would like to share a God moment to appear on this blog, e-mail me or post in the comments! <br />
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Today I feel God in the blessing of letting something go to start something new. Thanks be to God for Advent and New Beginnings! <br />
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<br />Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-36183849890991415072012-09-17T16:06:00.002-04:002012-09-17T16:20:23.905-04:00Why Practice Self Discipline? <a href="http://www.buzzle.com/img/articleImages/270089-49518-35.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; cursor: pointer;" src="http://www.buzzle.com/img/articleImages/270089-49518-35.jpg" alt="" border="0" height="205" width="226" /></a><br /><i>For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. </i>~ Hebrews 12:11 (ESV)<br /><br />Living a life of self-discipline isn't easy. It often requires planning and forethought. If I want to pray four times a day I better set aside time for it or my time will slip away. If I want to pray four times a day I may not be able to do other things I would enjoy. The time I spend praying in the morning is time that I am not spending catching up with my friends on Facebook or sleeping in. Catching up with my friends on Facebook is pleasant and even important, but when I pray instead I make the choice that praying is more important at that time.<br /><br />The author of Hebrews tells us that discipline might actually be painful in the moment, but will eventually yield great benefits. Our lives can be shaped and changed by self-discipline. Since I have been spending more time in prayer I can more easily see God in the every-day experiences of life.<br /><br />There are days I would much rather sleep-in than get up to pray. Sometimes I do sleep-in! But more often I get up and pray because I know that the momentary pain will be outweighed by the long term benefit.<br /><br />I've shared a couple of things that tempt me away from self-discipline: Facebook and sleep! What are some things that tempt you away from your self-disciplines? Why do you persevere? If you would like to be more self-disciplined what is one thing you might have to give up?<br />Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-33930095639181979742012-08-13T13:57:00.002-04:002012-08-13T14:10:26.330-04:00Initial Thoughts on Self-DisciplineA few weeks ago I finished my blog series on Generosity. One of you suggested that my next blog series could explore self-discipline. I like this idea, both because I believe self-discipline is important in the spiritual life and because it is something I am constantly working on. I am amazed by the "giants" of the faith who rise at 4am to pray. I am awed by stories of the "saints" who sacrifice their comfort, their sustenance and their very lives for God. I know that kind of self-discipline is out of my reach. <br /><br />Still, I think of myself as being moderately self-disciplined. I have devotional practices I follow throughout the day. I try to set aside four times each day for intentional prayer: early morning, mid-morning, midday and bedtime. I believe that disciplines such as eating well and exercise bring me closer to God and I try to practice these each day. My favorite definition of discipline is "making choices in a world filled with choices." What works to bring me closer to God may not work for you. We can't do it all. We all have to make our own choices. <br /><br />My struggle is finding the balance between self-discipline and flexibility. If a really great opportunity comes up to do something fun, is it okay to set aside my daily devotional? If I am really tired, can I let it go for just one night? Most of the time I say yes, but when that happens too often I begin to feel disconnected from God. It is then that I need to reevaluate my priorities and my practice of self-discipline. <br /><br /><i>What are your practices of self-discipline? What are your struggles? Is there a particular aspect of self-discipline you would like to explore? </i><br /><br /><br />Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-51041296606099769792012-07-23T15:44:00.002-04:002012-07-23T16:00:19.326-04:00Generosity: LoveThis will be the last in my blog series on generosity. After today I will be taking a couple of weeks away from the blog. I'm not sure what I will be blogging about when I resume in mid-August. Any ideas or suggestions? <br /><br />Today I want to reflect on generosity and love. I was very lucky to grow up with loving, expressive parents. Every night before bed my parents would tell me, "I love you." This was a great gift. When my father died in 2010 I had no question that he loved me. Every time my mother and I talk on the phone we say, "I love you" to each other across the miles. <br /><br />Jesus tells us that the most important thing we can do is love. The greatest commandments are to love God and love each other. In John 15 Jesus tells his disciples, "<span id="en-NIV-26712" class="text John-15-12"><span class="woj">My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you." </span></span>Love defines our lives as Christians. <br /><br />In our culture romantic love gets all the attention. There are, however, many different kinds of love. There is the deep and committed love of long-time partners. There is the love between parents and children. This is the love among friends and the love that binds together brothers and sisters in Christ. As a pastor I have experienced the love that exists between pastor and congregation. <br /><br />When was the last time you said, "I love you?" Is there someone in your life that you love but have not told? What could you lose by expressing your love to someone else? How are you being called to be generous in expressing your love?Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-87038418269992821092012-07-16T16:57:00.001-04:002012-07-16T16:57:55.896-04:00Generosity: Faith<style>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://blogs.nsb.org/jonathanalexander/files/2011/02/Generosity-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="http://blogs.nsb.org/jonathanalexander/files/2011/02/Generosity-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal">“God is greater and more generous than the best of those who profess to know him.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div><div class="MsoNormal">~ Peter Gomes in “The Scandalous Gospel of Jesus”</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Over the past few weeks I have been posting my thoughts on generosity. As Christians we are often generous with our time and our money. Recently our church community raised nearly $500 to buy a laptop for <i>Love and Grace Children's Home</i> in India. This mission provides a safe place for street children to live and learn. I am very pleased with our generosity. Through our generosity we are changing the world in small ways!</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">So far I have discussed generosity in terms of time, money and attitudes. Our faith, of course, informs our acts of generosity. What would it look like, though, to be generous with our faith? What would it mean to share our faith generously with those we meet everyday? </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">What I am talking about here is often called evangelism. (Yikes!) When we think of evangelism we think of bible-thumpers and those who knock on our door at the dinner hour to inquire into our eternal salvation. Evangelism, though, can come in different forms. We don't have to try to 'convert' everyone we meet. We could, though, share openly the good things in our lives, including our relationship with Jesus and our church. When we find a good mechanic or eat at a nice restaurant we don't hesitate to let others know. Why is it different when it comes to our faith? </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">What about your faith do you want to share today? How can you be generous with your faith this week? </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal"> </div>Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-36821424325545448452012-07-09T16:07:00.002-04:002012-07-09T16:20:00.077-04:00Generosity: Attitude<a href="http://christianmentoringandleadership.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/love-generosity-and-hope.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 360px; height: 196px;" src="http://christianmentoringandleadership.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/love-generosity-and-hope.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>There are many ways to be generous. As we've discussed over the past few weeks, we can be generous with our money and with our time. We can also be generous with our attitude. You know that person who cut you off in traffic? Instead of assuming that he is just a big jerk, it might be worthwhile to wonder if there could be another reason for his actions. Maybe he just found out that a loved one is in the hospital. Maybe he just lost his job and is preoccupied with worry. Perhaps he shouldn't be on the road, but flipping him the "bird" probably won't make the situation better either!<br /><br />In the course of our lives we will all experience slights. Our best friend will forget our birthday. Our loved one will say something we consider mean-spirited. A generosity in attitude could lead us to explore the situation further before jumping to conclusions. It is hard work to cultivate a generous attitude. Sometimes it is easier to just honk the horn or cut off communication with our thoughtless friend. However, the work of cultivating a generous attitude just might keep us from stewing over imagined hurts and lead to deeper, stronger relationships. <br /><br />I wonder if this is what Jesus was getting at when he told us to turn the other cheek. "But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also." (Matthew 5:39) Some have suggested that this passage encourages us to be doormats. I don't believe that Jesus would want any of his followers to submit to abusive behavior. Instead, I wonder if Jesus is encouraging us to resist the urge to jump to conclusions and, instead, be generous in our dealings with each other. In this passage Jesus goes on to say, "And if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well." Maybe that person needs it more!<br /><br />I certainly struggle with cultivating a generous attitude. Being generous in attitude is a spiritual discipline. It is so easy to assume that I know another's motivations and intentions. It is so easy to see slights when there are, instead, simple miscommunications. Spiritually, though, I want to see the best in people, not the worst.<br /><br /><i>When have you been generous in attitude? When have you not? How can you practice a generosity of attitude today?</i><br /><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td><br /></td><td valign="top"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td class="btext" colspan="2" height="20"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody><tr><td class="orange2" width="99%"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table></td></tr></tbody></table>Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-87541133655687209462012-06-25T16:24:00.001-04:002012-06-25T16:24:48.254-04:00Generosity: Time<a href="http://www.sundialtime.com/images/coloring-alarm-clock.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.sundialtime.com/images/coloring-alarm-clock.gif" width="256" /></a>This post continues our blog series on generosity. I haven't blogged since May 21st, so I hope that you will be generous in your patience and forgiveness! Sometimes the work of ministry is unpredictable and I find I have to juggle my time. Things like blogging take a "back seat" in these situations. Still, I enjoy blogging and appreciate the chance to connect in this way, when my time is not too squeezed.<br />
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So, fittingly, our topic today is time. Each day I have a plan for how my day will unfold. Rarely do I experience a day when my plan works out perfectly! Often I have to readjust midday. I find that there are many ways I could spend my time. <br />
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My hope is that I am more generous with my time spent in relationships and more flexible when it comes to time spent on administrative tasks. People are more important than paperwork! Still, there are times I have to cut short on conversations due to appointments or deadlines. Also, I know I can't give myself completely to my church or volunteer work because my family would suffer. Life is a juggling act! <br />
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As they say, all we have is the present moment. The past is gone and the future is not promised to us. In seeking to be generous with our time we can ask ourselves how we want to spend this moment, the only moment we have. Jesus modeled a life of generosity. He practiced presence with those he encountered. Even when he retreated for rest, he did so to recharge himself for his ministry with the people. While none of us will ever live up to Jesus example, we can seek to be present in each moment with each person we meet. <br />
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<i>Lord, help me to be present in each moment and generous with my time! </i>This is my prayer. What is your prayer? How do you practice generosity of time? What challenges do you face? What joys can you share?Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-26082035848582448912012-05-21T16:02:00.000-04:002012-05-21T16:02:04.449-04:00Generosity: Money<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www2.erie.gov/seniorservices/sites/www2.erie.gov.seniorservices/files/uploads/pour_water.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www2.erie.gov/seniorservices/sites/www2.erie.gov.seniorservices/files/uploads/pour_water.jpg" /></a></div>
Yesterday we dedicated our pledges and celebrated with a water ceremony in worship. As we came forward we placed our pledge cards in the altar basket and poured our water in the communal vase. Each drop of water that joined with the whole signified how we come together to do God's work in the world. <br />
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Sharing our money is one way we can be generous. As Jesus reminds us, it doesn't matter if we have little or much. Our calling is to give. In the story of the widow's mite, the widow gave a very small amount but was the most generous because she gave out of her poverty while everyone else gave out of their plenty. <br />
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In our everyday lives we receive many requests for funds. Many of the causes that ask for our money are worthy ones. In addition to giving to the church, Gary and I regularly support The ALS Association, Hope Works (formerly Women's Rape Crisis Center), Empire Grove United Methodist Campground and give on a one-time basis to other causes. It feels good to support worthwhile work in the world. <br />
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However, it is also scary to give sometimes. <i>What if I give away my money, only to find that I don't have enough? What if an unexpected bill arrives and I don't have the funds to cover it? </i>These are real questions we need to wrestle with as we ponder and discern our call to give. <br />
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Giving money is important to me because it is one way I can be part of something larger than myself. I can be one drop in the fountain. I may not be able to find a cure for ALS, but I can support those with the education and expertise to try. I may not be able to reach everyone in South Burlington with the love of Christ, but I can support our church community as we seek to do just that.<br />
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<i>What motivates you to be generous with your money? Why do you give? What scares you about giving? </i>Please share in the comments! Next week we will discuss generosity in terms of time. Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-75403712981160713602012-05-14T16:24:00.000-04:002012-05-14T16:24:04.327-04:00Generosity<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfyYQJcP8oLTouhM3J-2rtGgOf7TPt58qDaqfFOhX0GBmuPBGjv4g8O3029GPHVUgNKdpvJK-IwRz4RMTpMT91fG5jhdjGgdw1XLiUFePqcjSOxr_AjIfqr2y6z7pC1byATmIgys0Y9rVA/s1600/Generosity,%2520December%252011,%25202011.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfyYQJcP8oLTouhM3J-2rtGgOf7TPt58qDaqfFOhX0GBmuPBGjv4g8O3029GPHVUgNKdpvJK-IwRz4RMTpMT91fG5jhdjGgdw1XLiUFePqcjSOxr_AjIfqr2y6z7pC1byATmIgys0Y9rVA/s320/Generosity,%2520December%252011,%25202011.png" width="224" /></a>Lately I've been pondering the theological meaning of generosity. That is probably not surprising since we are in the midst of our Stewardship Campaign! Even so, there are many ways we can be generous. Collins English Dictionary defines generosity in this way:<br />
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<i>generosity — n , pl -ties 1. willingness and liberality in giving away one's money, time, etc; magnanimity 2. freedom from pettiness in character and mind 3. a generous act 4. abundance; plenty</i><br />
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Being generous is more than simply opening our wallets to give some of our resources to a worthy cause. Generosity is an out-look on life. It is a way of living in and looking at the world. Even those who have nothing to physically give can be extremely generous. Yet, those who give the most materially may not be very generous at heart. <br />
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When I "googled" images for generosity, this Wordle came up. (It is from a blog called "Adventures in Storytelling.) I like it because it expands the idea of generosity beyond monetary gifts. <i>How have you experienced generosity? How have you practiced generosity? </i>Over the next few weeks I will share some of my thoughts about how we can live generously through our time, our money, our attitudes, and our love. Feed free to share your thoughts! In fact, I hope you will be generous with your comments :)Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-8223355985388315222012-04-02T13:31:00.003-04:002012-04-02T13:47:26.371-04:00Lenten Disciplines: Meditating on God's Word<span style="font-style: italic;">I invite you, therefore, in the name of the Church,</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> to observe a holy Lent:</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> by self–examination and repentance;</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> by prayer, fasting, and self–denial;</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> and by reading and meditating on God's Holy Word.<br /><br /></span>"Thy<span style="font-style: italic;"> </span>word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path." This week is the holiest week of our Christian Year. It is the week we remember the crucifixion, death, burial and resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ. We learn of Christ's passion through the Scriptures. Together we will be reading the Scriptures of this week at our Maundy Thursday Tenebrae Service. On Easter Sunday we will read the good news of the Gospel of Jesus Christ!<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br /></span>One of the disciplines we are encouraged toward during Lent is meditating on God's Holy Word. As your pastor, I have to<span style="font-style: italic;"> </span>spend time with the Bible every week as I prepare my sermon for Sunday. Rarely a day goes by that I don't read Scripture for some purpose. However, working with the Scripture is different than reading it for my own personal devotion and encouragement. So, in addition to reading Scripture for sermon preparation, I set aside personal time for reading Scripture. When I neglect to do this my personal connection to God suffers. <span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br /></span>This week ~ Holy Week ~ would be a great time to read the Bible. One might begin with John 13 and read through the end of the Book of John. A spiritual discipline of reading the Bible during Lent may, hopefully, turn into a regular practice of spending time with the Bible.<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />When you meditate on God's word, do you feel a closer connection to God? What is your practice of Bible reading? Do you find reading the Scriptures to be personally encouraging? How so?<br /></span>Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-69693109575876273172012-03-26T16:21:00.002-04:002012-03-26T16:35:31.721-04:00Lenten Disciplines: Self Denial<span style="font-style: italic;">I invite you, therefore, in the name of the Church,</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> to observe a holy Lent:</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> by self–examination and repentance;</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> by prayer, fasting, and self–denial;</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> and by reading and meditating on God's Holy Word.<br /><br /></span>Self-denial doesn't sound like very much fun, but it is something with which we are all familiar. Self-denial is a major component of weight-loss. We often practice self-denial in order to get something we want. If we want a new car, for example, we might deny ourselves the treat of a daily latte or dinner out once a week in order to save money. While we probably miss those lattes and dinners out, when we get behind the wheel of that new car we are glad we denied ourselves. Currently Gary and I are trying to put some money away for our vacation. We will be glad that we denied ourselves some small pleasures when we have the pleasure of indulging ourselves a bit during our vacation week in May!<br /><br />Self-denial in the Lenten sense is not done for a material purpose ~ although that might be a side benefit. Lenten self-denial involves denying ourselves in order to draw closer to God. During Lent we typically think of giving up something, like chocolate. If, during Lent, our desire for chocolate makes us think of God then our awareness of God becomes greater and, hopefully, we come to feel God's presence in a closer way. <br /><br />Self-denial can also lead us to reflect on all that Jesus gave for us. We may deny ourselves a particular treat or TV show. Jesus gave his very life for us. Our practice of Lenten self-denial can help us to feel a greater gratitude for Jesus self-giving love. <br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Have you ever practiced self-denial for a spiritual purpose? Has your practice of self-denial brought you closer to God? How might the practice of self-denial help you prepare for Easter?</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> <br /></span>Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-64555285515735225892012-03-19T16:04:00.002-04:002012-03-19T16:18:56.023-04:00Lenten Disciplines: Fasting<span style="font-style: italic;">I invite you, therefore, in the name of the Church,</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> to observe a holy Lent:</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> by self–examination and repentance;</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> by prayer, fasting, and self–denial;</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> and by reading and meditating on God's Holy Word.<br /><br /></span>This week we get to talk about fasting! I have to admit that I only have limited experience with fasting from food. I have done the John Wesley fast a few times, which involves fasting from sundown on Thursday through sundown on Friday. During these fasts I allowed myself water and juice to drink. At one of my churches we had a Lenten Study that met on Wednesday evenings. As a group we covenanted not to eat lunch on Wednesday before the study. We broke the fast with a dinner of soup and bread before we began our study together Wednesday evening. I also have participated in two 30 Hour Famines with youth groups at my churches. These events involve fasting for 30 hours (Friday after lunch through Saturday evening) to raise money for hunger relief and awareness around the world. <br /><br />All of the fasts I mentioned above involve fasting from food. I have to say that I have not experienced the spiritual effects of these fasts that many other people have described. I know that fasting from food can be a powerful experience of drawing closer to God. I also know that every one is different and these kind of fasts haven't really 'worked' for me. <br /><br />One Lent I did "fast" from television and I found it to be a profoundly spiritual experience. Even though I don't consider myself an avid TV-watcher, not watching TV for the 40 days of Lent allowed me more time to spend with God, with other people, and in pursuits I had not thought I had time for before. I read an incredible amount during that Lent. <span style="font-style: italic;">I admit that I did miss watching TV. </span>Still, I came out of that experience feeling closer to God and stronger in my faith. <br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Have you ever fasted? What was the experience like for you? What "nontraditional" fasts have you done? Would you consider fasting to draw closer to God? </span><br /><br />Next week, a related topic ~ self-denial!Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-56856965800031560922012-03-11T15:05:00.002-04:002012-03-11T15:16:50.788-04:00Lenten Disciplines: Prayer<span style="font-style: italic;">I invite you, therefore, in the name of the Church,</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> to observe a holy Lent:</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> by self–examination and repentance;</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> by prayer, fasting, and self–denial;</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> and by reading and meditating on God's Holy Word.<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></span></span>This week's topic is prayer! Part of our call to Lenten discipline is to spend more time in prayer. <span style="font-style: italic;">How much time do you spend in prayer on an average day? </span>I find it helpful to remind myself that prayer is both listening to and speaking with God. Otherwise, I will fill my prayer time with my words to God and forget to listen for God's words to me. <br /><br />I have also found it helpful to designate certain times of the day to prayer. My most significant prayer time is in the morning before I 'begin my day.' During this time I read Scripture, pray extemporaneously, use guided prayer and read a devotional. Then, throughout the day, I mark the transitions of the day with prayer ~ arriving at work, midday, evening and before bed. This general pattern works for me, but probably won't work for you exactly. We all have to find our own rhythm to our prayer relationship with God. <br /><br />During these weeks of Lent we are invited to be more intentional about our spiritual disciplines, including prayer. <span style="font-style: italic;">What prayer disciplines have worked for you? What prayer disciplines would you like to try? Do you feel a need to deepen your prayer life? How has Lent become more meaningful or richer for you through prayer? <br /><br /></span>May these weeks of Lent be a blessing and a challenge to us all as we draw closer to the cross and the empty tomb!Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-76518505436794938962012-03-05T17:07:00.003-05:002012-03-05T17:19:54.743-05:00Lenten Disciplines: Repentance<span style="font-style: italic;">I invite you, therefore, in the name of the Church,</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> to observe a holy Lent:</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> by self–examination and repentance;</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> by prayer, fasting, and self–denial;</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> and by reading and meditating on God's Holy Word.<br /><br /></span>I continue my reflections on the Lenten Disciplines with the topic of repentance. When we think of repentance we often think of being sorry for the wrongs we have committed. During Lent we are invited to repent of our sin. Repentance might be considered synonymous with regret. Theologically, though, the meaning of repentance is much richer. My "Dictionary of Theological Terms" defines repentance this way:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">The act of expressing contrition and penitence for sin. Its linguistic roots point to its theological meaning of a change of mind and life direction as a beginning step of expressing Christian faith. <br /><br /></span>In the Bible we hear the invitation to repent more than once. In the first chapter of the Gospel of Mark Jesus speaks these words,<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> "</span></span><span class="woj">“The time has come,”</span> he said. <span class="woj">“The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!”</span><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span> </span>Jesus is not just asking us to feel bad for the wrong we have done. He is inviting us to change our minds and our way of life. He is inviting us to turn around and live differently. When we repent of our sins we can leave them behind!<br /><br />Are there things in our life that you would like to change? Are there sins that you want to turn away from and leave behind? Are you searching for a new direction in life? Are you feeling led to repent this Lenten season? How might your life be different if you "repent and believe in the good news"? <br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span>Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-18691626898571684622012-02-27T15:36:00.004-05:002012-02-27T15:53:15.120-05:00Lenten Disciplines: Self-ExaminationDuring the Christian Season of Lent we are invited to an intentional time of prayer and reflection as we prepare ourselves for Holy Week and Easter. The forty days of Lent are a time set apart. Our United Methodist Book of Worship calls us to this time with the words:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">I invite you, therefore, in the name of the Church,</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> to observe a holy Lent:</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> by self–examination and repentance;</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> by prayer, fasting, and self–denial;</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> and by reading and meditating on God's Holy Word.</span><br /><br />For the next few weeks I will use this space to consider each of these ways of observing Lent, starting with today and self-examination.<br /><br />According to the dictionary, self-examination is the "introspective consideration of ones thoughts or emotions." I would add 'actions' as well. When we consider our thoughts, emotions and actions we begin to see what motivates us, what bring us joy and what brings us pain and anxiety. Self-examination is not easy, though, because we are often forced to see things about ourselves we would rather deny. We might see ways that our actions hurt others. We might see that our thoughts are not as pure or generous as we might like. Self-examination can be a difficult process.<br /><br />Self-examination can also be fruitful. True self-examination leads to repentance and change, which I will talk about in my next blog post! In the meantime, I invite you to spend sometime in self-examination this week. <span style="font-style: italic;">What in your life ~ thoughts, actions, emotions ~ keeps you from drawing even closer to God?</span> You are welcome to share any thoughts or insights here! May you be blessed as you observe <span style="font-style: italic;">a holy Lent. </span>Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8518006879422815000.post-60326054917609362572012-02-13T16:45:00.003-05:002012-02-13T16:56:49.762-05:00Crossing BoundariesYesterday we read the story of Jesus healing a man with leprosy through the touch of his hand. To me this is a powerful story of boundary crossing. It reminds me that Jesus is willing to cross whatever boundary in order to heal us and make us whole. It also invites me to consider what boundaries I am willing to cross to aid in the healing of others. <br /><br />Rev. Steve Garnaas-Holmes is an elder in our New England Conference. Steve maintains a blog with daily meditations and reflections on the Scripture. Today I came across his reflection on this passage and was 'blow away.' Steve gave words to what I was feeling about this passage and I thank him for that. I share his words with you here with an encouragement for you to visit his blog <a href="http://unfoldinglight.net/">UnfoldingLight.net </a><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Untouchables</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Dearly Beloved,</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Grace and peace to you.</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">A leper came to him begging him, </span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">and kneeling he said to him, </span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">“If you choose you can make me clean.” </span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Moved with compassion, Jesus stretched out his hand </span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">and touched him. –Mark 1.40-41</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Who are the lepers who beg for our compassion, </span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">whom no one will touch?</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Are they the prisoners, who frighten us, or nursing home folks?</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> Those who are depressed, or transgendered or angry, </span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">the drunk mumbling in the doorstep, </span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">the guy with the cardboard sign at the stoplight, </span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">the dying, before whom we stutter and stall? </span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">The mentally ill, kidnapped from their own minds,</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> that we are afraid to speak to? </span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">The kid with piercings, tattoos and blue hair,</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> immigrants who any moment will be hauled off, </span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">people who are chronically poor and grumpy about it? </span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Who are we afraid to touch, to be touched by?</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Don’t think we have no Untouchables <br />in our closely guarded caste system. </span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">They live within you. </span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">We are the ones with the dis-ease, who afflict them </span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">with our refusal to reach out to them, to connect, to admit </span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">that we are just like them.</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">What healed the leper was no magical power.</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> It was the willingness of a compassionate heart</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> to embrace. </span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">We can do miracles in this world</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> with our own two hands.</span><br style="font-style: italic;"><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Deep Blessings, </span><br style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Pastor Steve</span>Pastor Krista Bethhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10918109260110394172noreply@blogger.com0